COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Exercise for COPD 07/26/2010

Question:

Is there an exercise program that helps a patient with difficult breathing problems?

Answer:

Yes, exercise programs that are geared towards patients with breathing difficulties are called "pulmonary rehabilitation". These programs are usually covered by most insurances, and meet 2-3 times a week for 8-12 weeks. You should talk to your physician for a referral to such a program close to your home.

Pulmonary rehabilitation typically incorporates different breathing techniques with lower and upper body strength and endurance exercises to increase functional capacity in patients with breathing problems. After graduating from a program of pulmonary rehabilitation, it is highly recommended to stay in a maintenance program to keep the benefits.

For more information:

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• Browse the previously asked questions

Response by:

Mahasti Rittinger, RRT Clinical Program Manager of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep College of Medicine The Ohio State University